Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — As the fall breeze settles in and the holiday glow flickers across the Alabama Gulf Coast, this week brings another vibrant mix of community traditions, coastal flavors, friendly competitions, and festive fun. Whether you’re craving a lively night out, a comforting local meal, a dose of holiday shopping, or an outdoor escape in the cooler weather, something is happening daily to keep you exploring. From throwback TV trivia and community BINGO to woodfired steaks, campground stories, coastal markets, and live music showdowns, the Coast is brimming with ways to connect, unwind and celebrate the season. Here’s what’s happening this week across our beachy towns–let the holly cheer commence. 

Monday, November 17th- Brush off those old TV trivia skills for an exciting evening at Big Beach Brewing Company with TV throwback trivia night focused on sitcoms from the 1980s to the early 2000s. This period was a significant era in television, where cultural saturation meant that even casual viewers were likely familiar with various shows. Expect questions covering iconic series such as "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air," "Dawson’s Creek," "Friends," "The Golden Girls," "The Cosby Show," "Miami Vice," "Baywatch," and many more. This trivia night promises to offer an accessible yet thought-provoking experience, appealing to both dedicated fans and those with a casual awareness of the genres. Whether you’re a true aficionado or just someone who enjoyed watching TV during that time, this event will present enjoyable challenges that test your knowledge of television history. Come out and tip your glass, and try your hand in a friendly, fun and engaging competition of memory all while kicking it at one of the coolest neighborhood hangouts in town. Participants are encouraged to arrive before 7PM to grab your spot and form your team. 

Big Beach Brewing Company 

300 E 24th Ave 

Gulf Shores, AL 36542

TV Trivia @ Big Beach Brew

Tuesday, November 18th- Some of the best days of the year to explore our towns and offerings are during what is now referred to as the "thinner season," and that time is now. We no longer have completely off-seasons with locals only in town; however, we still see some changes, like more opportunities to beat the crowds, get to know your server, and take advantage of special seasonal menu pricing. Games and other forms of entertainment are all offered during these cooler months on the Gulf Coast, which creates chances for community engagement rather than lines and wait times. One great spot to check out right now is DeSoto’s Seafood Kitchen, where comfort and quality go hand in hand. This Gulf Shores hotspot opens daily for lunch from 11 AM to 3 PM, offering plenty of seating and quick service for those on a lunch break. The menu features everything from traditional fried seafood to a wide selection of fish plates, hearty pasta dishes, home-style lunches, salads, and more. The dinner menu begins immediately after lunch closes and lasts until 9 PM. This menu offers similar items with larger portions, platters, and a build-your-own option. If you’ve never tried this family-owned restaurant, try it out this week. The time is ripe. 

DeSoto’s Seafood Kitchen

138 West 1st Ave

Gulf Shores, AL 26542

DeSoto's Kitchen

Wednesday, November 19th- For a unique post-pre- or during-dinner experience, consider attending community BINGO at iconic Tacky Jacks Grill and Tavern in Orange Beach on Wednesday evenings from 6 to 8 PM. This event uniquely integrates dining with entertainment, blending social interaction with traditional food fare, enhancing the overall guest experience. It's an excellent opportunity to enjoy communal engagement while choosing from the menu at a vibrant waterside under the moonlight setting.  Tacky Jacks is commonplace to many locals and welcomes all, so whether it’s your first time or not, the Tacky Jacks crew and their regulars bring a night compatible for everyone. Don’t forget to check out the gift shop while you're there and see if Santa and his elves have dropped off any holiday shopping prices ready to be snagged up, wrapped up, and tucked under the tree. Happy Holidays, and may the best card win. 

Tacky Jack's Grill & Tavern

27206 Safe Harbor Dr

Orange Beach, AL 36561

BINGO night @ Tacky Jacks

Thursday, November 20th- Some people plan their coastal vacations to Orange Beach with great seafood in mind, and some plan it around dining at Big Mike’s Steakhouse. What makes this steakhouse different from others isn't just the story of the founders’ friendship but the choice of meat on which they pride themselves. Voted Alabama’s best steak by the Cattlemen’s Association, it's no wonder this incredible mouthwatering favorite is bringing not one but two new locations to the public, coming soon. Convinced yet? The steaks at Mike’s are grilled to perfection on a woodfire grill, sending enticing aromas up in the air and down the street, drawing people to it, just drive by after 4PM any day of the week to see for yourself. Woodfire steaks tend to be so tender you can slice them with a fork, and this menu offers plenty of excellent cuts. Love red meat but have friends or family in your party that don’t–no problem, the owners of Big Mike’s have catered to the area with a fine menu of seafood items, like crab cakes, tuna dips, and more to choose from. Check out the stuffed mushrooms for an appetizer, go light with a salad and protein topper, or choose from the between-the-bun selection. Stop by for dinner and be sure to plan and arrive early, because with a steakhouse in a beach town, this is good, no matter what time of the year it is, you’ll find a full parking lot,--enjoy. 

Big Mike's Steakhouse

25638 Canal Rd

Orange Beach, AL 36561

Founders Story- Big Mike's

Friday, November 21st- Pack your sleeping bags and dust off your tents! The Alabama Gulf Coast is calling with optimal weather conditions and exciting opportunities for new adventures. Gulf State Park, located just 1.5 miles from the beautiful white sandy beaches, provides an ideal setting for a variety of outdoor activities. This close proximity allows visitors to effortlessly explore both the park's landscapes and the coastal ecosystems, making it a prime destination for diverse recreational experiences. Whether you’re hiking, fishing, or simply enjoying the natural scenery, the park offers a unique chance to discover both land and marine environments. The park's campgrounds feature 496 sites, including 11 modern bathhouses, pull-thru and back-in sites, waterfront options, and ADA-accessible sites. All camping pads are paved, accommodating RVs and come equipped with water, sewer, and electric hookups, along with a picnic table and a pedestal grill. For more details about onsite amenities, check the park's website. Campers can enjoy fun activities such as scavenger hunts with geocaching, swimming in the pool on hot days, ziplines, hiking, golfing, fishing, and a playground for kids. Best of all, the Nature Center offers low-cost and free classes and exhibits featuring topics ranging from native animals and plants to the solar system. There’s no shortage of fun within the park or in the nearby towns. Visit the camping area of Gulf State Park and create lasting memories during these cooler months on the Coast!

Gulf State Park Campground

22050 Campground Rd

Gulf Shores, AL 36561

Camp at the Gulf State Park

Saturday, November 22nd- Deck the halls with an advance on holiday shopping at the 2nd Annual Coastal Christmas Market this Saturday and Sunday, open from 10 AM to 5 PM. The event features a gathering of local artists and crafters, each showcasing unique, artisanal gifts that emphasize craftsmanship and individuality—precious presents from the heart that you won't typically find in stores. The market highlights the value of handmade goods as authentic expressions of personal creativity and emotional investment, making them perfect for meaningful holiday gifting. In addition, there will be an extensive selection of fine arts and retail items available. Last year's event was a great success, encouraging the Coastal Alabama Business Chamber to host the market again, this year with Baldwin Health as the presenting sponsor. Everyone is looking forward to another successful year of what is sure to become a beloved Christmas tradition for shoppers, both locals and travelers. Entry is free, so stroll the aisles, get in the spirit and check out the talented vendors with all their fantastic items they have on display. Tis the season to be Jolly!

Orange Beach Event Center 

4671 Wharf Pkwy W

Orange Beach,AL 36561

Coastal Christmas Market - related article 

Saturday, November 22nd- In other noteworthy local weekend news, the Gulf State Park and Big Beach Brewing Company have been working on a sweet, well-malty collaboration. Introducing the announcement and premier tasting of “Rain Check Festbier”, a German malty lager made with rainwater collected from the Alabama Gulf State Park. Talk about sustainability with this wicked fresh water retained through the park's “Big Blue” collection system; it doesn't get much more environmentally resourceful than this match-up. Pop by the brew to celebrate their victory on the island's first-ever wholly sustainable keg o lager.   

Rain Check Beer Release @ Big Beach

Sunday, November 23rd- If you didn't already know, the Alabama Gulf Coast is a thriving music hub that showcases its beaches and venues to no-names, big names, local favorites, school bands, legends, and classics. This is also where rising stars often step on sand and stone before their musical heights shift into the spotlight, spreading like the morning sun. Battle of the Bands at the Hangout in Gulf Shores is where you’ll find some of these starlights–a group of the best up-and-coming artists from the Gulf Coast. The show, aka battle, begins at 4PM and lasts through 9PM, where only one incredible winner will be crowned. So, whether you're a music lover, love a good crowd-judged competition or want to spend time outdoors with friends and family, good food, music and atmosphere, this is the place for you to come out and enjoy a night at the beach for a battle of talent and audience captivity that will have everyone talking to the beat.

The Hangout 

101 E Beach Blvd 

Gulf Shores, AL 36542

Battle of the Bands